FDA, CDC Say No Contamination in Recalled Enfamil Formula

Federal inspectors say that tests have found no sign of bacterial contamination in recalled batches of Enfamil baby formula, despite the death of two children and illnesses reported by two others. 

Days after an Enfamil recall was issued by Wal-Mart following the death of a 10-day-old infant infected with Chronobacter, the FDA and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that investigations have revealed no signs of the bacteria in sealed containers of Enfamil baby formula from the same lot.

The findings back up claims by the manufacturer, Mead Johnson, who has indicated that it inspects every batch for bacterial contamination.

The FDA issued an infant formula investigation report on December 30, finding no evidence that four recent cases of Chronobacter infection among infants in Florida, Illinois, Missouri and Oklahoma were linked to Enfamil. Despite the deaths of the infants from Florida and Missouri, the FDA stated that there was no need for a more widespread recall Enfamil infant formula.

Investigators looked through the Mead Johnson plant and conducted laboratory testing on a number of baby formula brands and types, including the batch Wal-Mart decided to recall after the death of Avery Cornett, who died in mid-December after eating Enfamil formula bought at a Wal-Mart in Lebanon, Missouri.

At least 120 infant deaths have been linked to Chronobacter since 1958. The bacteria grows rapidly in formula reconstituted in warm water not hot enough to kill it, and causes swelling of the brain and spinal cord, resulting in symptoms similar to meningitis.

Similac and Enfamil Lawsuits Over Injuries for Premature Babies

Following years of concerns that cows milk baby formula causes NEC for premature infants at rates far greater than breast milk, a number of families nationwide are now pursuing an Enfamil lawsuit or Similac lawsuit alleging that inadequate warnings were provided for parents, doctors and hospitals.